Today, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, met with His Excellency Gilberto Teodoro, Philippine Secretary of National Defense, to strengthen bilateral defence relations and advance cooperation with one of Canada's most important defence partners in the Indo-Pacific.
During the meeting, the Minister and the Secretary marked two significant milestones in the Canada-Philippines defence relationship: the signing of a Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement, and the signing of a Statement of Intent on Strengthening Defence Cooperation.
Prior to their discussions, the Minister and the Secretary signed a Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement between the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to facilitate the exchange of logistical support during combined exercises, training, deployments, and operations. This arrangement will increase operational readiness and interoperability and help both forces to work together more effectively.
Building on the Defence Cooperation Arrangement signed in 2024 and the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement signed in 2025, Canada and the Philippines have also signed a Statement of Intent on Strengthening Defence Cooperation to guide the next phase of their growing defence partnership. The Statement of Intent reflects a shared commitment to deepen cooperation and provides a roadmap to expand cooperation between the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces and the Department of National Defense of the Philippines and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
In their discussions, the Ministers explored additional opportunities to expand cooperation in areas such as maritime security, joint military exercises, and the defence industry. They also exchanged views on the evolving security environment in the Indo-Pacific and reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintain and promote the rule of law in the region.
As a Pacific nation, Canada's security and prosperity are closely linked to the stability of the broader Indo-Pacific region. Canada is, and will continue to be, an active, engaged, and reliable partner in promoting regional peace and stability. In light of the upcoming 10th anniversary of the arbitral ruling on the South China Sea on July 12, Canada reaffirms its unwavering commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.
